Bengaluru: The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) has suspended one of its conductors after a viral video allegedly showed him kicking and physically assaulting a man attempting to board a bus, triggering widespread public outrage on social media.
According to BMTC, the incident involved conductor Krishnamurthy (Badge No. 11503) of Depot 43, who was on duty in bus KA-57 F-1104 operating on Route No. 258SD/1 during the night shift on August 2.
The video, widely circulated across social media platforms, allegedly shows the conductor pushing a passenger, reportedly a beggar, out of the bus and assaulting him.
BMTC orders departmental inquiry
Taking serious note of the incident, BMTC said it has placed the conductor under suspension pending a departmental inquiry.
The transport corporation clarified that the suspension is a preliminary administrative measure to ensure a fair and impartial investigation and does not prejudge the outcome of the inquiry.
Officials said the investigation will include statements from the conductor, the passenger involved, eyewitnesses, CCTV footage from the bus, where available, and any other relevant evidence before arriving at a conclusion.
Zero tolerance for misconduct
In an official statement, BMTC reiterated that it follows a zero-tolerance policy towards employee misconduct, discourteous behaviour and any act that compromises the dignity, safety or rights of passengers.
The corporation said appropriate disciplinary action would be initiated if the allegations are found to be true during the inquiry, in accordance with service rules and regulations.
BMTC also acknowledged the concerns expressed by the public following the circulation of the video and assured citizens that such incidents are treated with utmost seriousness.
The corporation reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring passenger safety, dignity and courteous service while maintaining transparency and public trust in Bengaluru’s public transport system.